Introduction

Hey there, music lovers! Today, I wanted to share with you the meaning behind one of my favorite tracks by the soulful and talented Ari Lennox. The song I’m referring to is “I Been” from her album “Shea Butter Baby” released in 2019. This song holds a special place in my heart, as it beautifully captures the emotions and experiences many of us can relate to in the realm of love and heartbreak.

Table of Contents

Lyrics Analysis

The chorus of the song immediately draws us in with its catchy melody and intriguing lyrics. Ari Lennox sings, “I’ve been smokin’ purple haze, ooh, all to forget about you.” The reference to “purple haze” suggests the use of marijuana as a coping mechanism to escape the memories and pain associated with a past lover. It’s a common theme in music, where individuals turn to substances as a temporary relief from heartache.

In the first verse, Ari expresses her frustration with the dating scene and her experiences on Tinder. She sings, “But I’m havin’ the worst luck on Tinder, ooh, why’d you have to be a big pretender?” Here, she conveys her disappointment in encountering people who pretend to be someone they’re not, possibly reminding her of the person who broke her heart. It’s a relatable sentiment, as many of us have experienced deceit or disappointment in relationships.

Moving on to the second verse, Ari addresses the lies and deception of her past lover. She sings, “Oh, it’s the 47th time that I’ve changed my number, should call you Mannie Fresh ‘cause you’s the number one stunna.” This line cleverly compares her ex-lover to Mannie Fresh, a rapper known as the “number one stunna.” By doing so, Ari conveys her ex’s arrogant and deceitful nature, emphasizing the repeated lies that led her to change her number multiple times.

Painful Reflection and Healing

In the bridge of the song, Ari gives some advice, singing, “Don’t date these niggas ‘til you’re 43, a heartbreak gonna creep on after me.” Here, she urges listeners to be cautious in love, suggesting that taking time for personal growth and healing can prevent future heartbreak. It’s a reflection on her own experiences, where the pain inflicted by a past lover still haunts her.

Closing the song in the outro, Ari speaks directly to her audience and shares some personal thoughts. She encourages individuals not to block potential blessings by holding onto toxic relationships. Ari emphasizes the importance of avoiding situations where someone is tearing you down mentally, emotionally, or physically. This part of the song serves as a reminder to prioritize self-love and emotional well-being.

My Personal Connection

When I first heard “I Been,” I was captivated by the raw honesty and vulnerability in Ari Lennox’s voice. The way she expresses her pain and frustration resonated deeply with me, as I had experienced similar emotions in my own past relationships. This song became my anthem during a time of healing and self-discovery, serving as a reminder to prioritize my well-being above all else.

Conclusion

“I Been” by Ari Lennox is more than just a beautiful melody and captivating vocals. It’s a song that speaks to the universal experiences of heartache, deception, and healing. Through her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Ari Lennox invites us to embark on a journey of self-reflection and growth. So, next time you find yourself needing a reminder to prioritize your own well-being, give “I Been” a listen. It might just become your personal anthem too.